Ian Martin is unfair on speed awareness course leaders when he compares Keir Starmer “droning on” in a leaders’ debate to them (Betting, vetting and the return of Big Dog: the weirdest election campaign ever is only getting weirder, 21 June). I attended one such course a few years ago, and apart from being disabused of the idea that men were the main culprits in exceeding speed limits (numbers in the room were an even split between the sexes), I spent a delightful afternoon being entertained by two course leaders, whose sardonic wit helped reinforce the serious message. I did say to them that they had missed careers as standup comedians.
Tom Brown
London
Re understanding archaic references in crosswords (Letters, 21 June), at the other end of the spectrum, I had to ask my granddaughter to explain what “clout bombing” means (Barbie pink is out, lime green is in: Charli XCX’s album spawns ‘brat summer’ trend, 21 June).
Mark Newbury (aged 64)
Sophia Ferguson (aged 11)
Farndale, North Yorkshire
Before anyone gets too excited about an endorsement from Chris Skidmore (I was a Tory minister – but I think we need a Labour government, 21 June), let’s pause to remember Britannia Unchained. He was one of the authors of this dreadful book that launched the careers of Kwasi Kwarteng, Priti Patel, Dominic Raab and Liz Truss. Mr Skidmore has a lot more atoning to do.
Tom Saul
Tetbury, Gloucestershire
Can we hope that, come October, the Guardian will entrust its review of Boris Johnson’s memoir Unleashed to John Crace (Letters, 20 June) We will at least be guaranteed an element of enjoyment before deciding whether the book should be categorised as true crime or fiction.
Micheal Elkington
Orpington, Kent
Sophie Anderson, a UK-based writer, is your guide to the latest trends, viral sensations, and internet phenomena. With a finger on the pulse of digital culture, she explores what’s trending across social media and pop culture, keeping readers in the know about the latest online sensations.
